A psychosomatic illness is one in which an individual imagines a sickness; it may be as real to the person as a real illness. A somatic illness is a real one, with real symptoms, but it, too, can be associated with a disorder, when the response to the symptoms is out of proportion to the reality. 

I’ve been fortunate with not having been directly affected by a relative or friend having been affected by either a psychosomatic or somatic disorder. But I’ve heard of or known people who have. And it’s all too true that just because “it’s only an illness in the mind” doesn’t mean it can be ignored or discounted; the impact on the individual and those around him or her can be devastating. 

 

In her new collection, Somatic: Poems, Ann Keniston explores these illnesses. And she does so from what seems clear as first-hand experience with a close family member. 

To continue reading, please see my post today at Tweetspeak Poetry.

Some Thursday Readings

 

“To a Wreath of Snow,” poem by Emily Bronte – Joseph Bottum at Poems Ancient and Modern.

 

Poet Laura: Pelican Brief, Pod, Pouch, Scoop, or Squadron – Donna Hilbert at Tweetspeak Poetry.

 

A Ghibli Advent: Peace – Megan Willome.

 

“The Owl,” poem by Alfred, Lord Tennyson – Sally Thomas at Poems Ancient and Modern.